How does arsenic get in apple juice

Subject : English

Question:

How does arsenic get in apple juice?

Expert Verified Answer:

Arsenic can find its way into apple juice through various environmental and agricultural factors. There are two types of arsenic: organic and inorganic. Inorganic arsenic, which is more toxic, may contaminate apple juice during the growing process.

Soil Contamination: In some regions, apple orchards are planted in soil that has been previously treated with arsenic-based pesticides. While these pesticides were banned decades ago, traces of arsenic can still linger in the soil and get absorbed by the apple trees.

Water Contamination: Groundwater, which is sometimes used to irrigate apple crops, can be contaminated with arsenic. This is particularly true in areas where natural arsenic deposits exist in the Earth’s crust, and the element leaches into water sources.

Juice Processing: During the production of apple juice, arsenic in the apples can be concentrated in the final product. While this does not mean all apple juice contains harmful levels of arsenic, it highlights the importance of monitoring and testing to ensure safety.

Regulations and monitoring programs are in place to ensure that the levels of arsenic in apple juice remain within safe limits set by health authorities.